This French toast casserole is the perfect solution when you want a delicious breakfast without the morning prep. You can assemble it the night before, let it soak overnight, and pop it in the oven the next day. It’s soft and custardy inside with a slightly crisp topping. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating your family, this dish delivers homemade comfort with minimal effort.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Bread (preferably day-old brioche, challah, or French bread)
Eggs
Milk
Heavy cream
Sugar (white or brown)
Vanilla extract
Ground cinnamon
Salt
Butter
Optional toppings: powdered sugar, maple syrup, fresh berries, or nuts
Directions
Prepare the bread: Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Make the custard: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
Assemble: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes. Press down lightly so all the bread is soaked.
Chill (optional): Cover and refrigerate overnight for best results, or let sit for at least 30 minutes if baking immediately.
Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the fridge while the oven heats. Dot the top with butter. Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
Serve: Let cool for a few minutes before serving with your favorite toppings.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 8–10 people. Preparation takes about 15 minutes, with an optional overnight chill. Baking time is approximately 50 minutes.
Variations
Fruit-Filled: Add sliced apples, blueberries, or bananas between the bread layers before adding the custard.
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for texture.
Cream Cheese Swirl: Add dollops of sweetened cream cheese throughout the casserole for a rich twist.
Pumpkin Spice: Add a few tablespoons of pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice for a seasonal version.
Savory Option: Omit sugar and cinnamon, and add cooked sausage, cheese, and herbs for a savory breakfast bake.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 30–60 seconds or in a 300°F (150°C) oven until warmed through. For freezing, wrap the baked casserole tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven before serving.
FAQs
Can I use any type of bread?
Yes, but day-old brioche, challah, or French bread work best because they hold up well and absorb the custard without getting mushy.
Do I have to refrigerate it overnight?
No, but chilling overnight allows the bread to absorb the custard fully, giving the casserole a richer texture.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use plant-based milk and a dairy-free cream alternative. Swap butter with a dairy-free spread.
Is it okay to use fresh bread?
You can, but fresh bread might become too soggy. Let it dry out slightly or toast it before using.
Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, you can cut back on sugar or use a natural sweetener like maple syrup or honey in the custard.
What toppings go well with this casserole?
Maple syrup, powdered sugar, whipped cream, fresh fruit, or a drizzle of caramel sauce are all great choices.
Can I add a crumble topping?
Yes, mix flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter to sprinkle on top before baking for a streusel effect.
How do I know it’s fully cooked?
The center should be set and not jiggly. A knife inserted in the middle should come out clean.
Can I prepare this in a slow cooker?
Yes, cook on low for 4–5 hours or until the custard sets. The texture will be softer than oven-baked.
Is this freezer-friendly?
Absolutely. You can freeze it after baking. Reheat in the oven covered with foil until heated through.
Conclusion
Easy French toast casserole is a delicious, make-ahead breakfast dish that’s both practical and indulgent. With its soft, custardy interior and crisp top, it’s sure to impress family or guests. Whether you’re hosting brunch or just enjoying a cozy morning at home, this simple recipe brings warmth and comfort to the table with minimal fuss.
Easy French Toast Casserole is a warm, custardy breakfast bake made with buttery bread soaked in a cinnamon-vanilla custard and baked until golden. Perfect for holidays, brunches, or cozy mornings.
Ingredients
1 loaf day-old brioche, challah, or French bread (about 10 cups), cut into 1-inch cubes
6 large eggs
2 cups milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup sugar (white or brown)
1 tbsp vanilla extract
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp salt
2 tbsp butter, cut into small pieces
Optional toppings: powdered sugar, maple syrup, fresh berries, chopped nuts
Instructions
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and add the cubed bread in an even layer.
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt.
Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread. Press gently to ensure all bread is soaked.
Cover and refrigerate overnight, or let it sit for at least 30 minutes if baking right away.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the dish from the refrigerator while the oven heats.
Dot the top of the casserole with pieces of butter.
Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
Let cool slightly before serving. Top with powdered sugar, syrup, or desired toppings.
Notes
Day-old bread absorbs the custard best without becoming soggy.Add fruit, nuts, or cream cheese for variation.To make ahead, assemble the night before and bake in the morning.Check doneness with a knife in the center—it should come out clean.To freeze, wrap the baked casserole tightly and freeze up to 2 months.
